Sometimes, the words we choose reveal more about us than we realize.

Whether we’re at work, with friends, or even online, what we say can leave a lasting impression.

People who lack class often give themselves away with certain phrases that make others cringe or feel uncomfortable.

These aren’t just slips of the tongue—they’re clues to deeper personality traits, according to psychology.

In this article, we’ll look at 10 common phrases that can make someone come across as disrespectful, arrogant, or downright rude. If you catch yourself using any of these, don’t worry—awareness is the first step to change.

Let’s dive in and see what these phrases are and what they might say about the person who uses them.

1) Whatever…

Psychology often sees the phrase “Whatever” as a clear indicator of a lack of class.

Now, this might seem like an innocuous term, a simple filler word used in casual conversations. But its true implications go beyond that.

“Whatever” is a dismissive term. It’s often used to disregard or belittle someone else’s opinion or feelings. It shows a lack of respect for the other person’s viewpoint and a disregard for meaningful conversation.

This phrase is the verbal equivalent of shrugging your shoulders, a clear sign of indifference. And indifference, as psychology tells us, can be more damaging than outright disagreement.

When people regularly use “whatever”, they’re indicating not only a lack of class but also an absence of empathy and understanding. This is a habit worth breaking if you want to convey respect and class in your interactions.

2) I’m just being honest…

I remember a time when I was having a conversation with an old friend. We were discussing a recent decision I had made, and I noticed they seemed uncomfortable. Before giving their opinion, they prefaced it with “I’m just being honest…”

According to psychology, this phrase is often a red flag for rudeness masquerading as truth-telling. It’s used as a way to justify saying something potentially hurtful or offensive, implying that the listener should appreciate the speaker’s candor.

However, in reality, it often comes off as callous and lacking consideration. Classy individuals know how to express their honesty without resorting to such phrases, understanding the importance of tact and timing. So remember, honesty is appreciated, but delivering it with respect will always show more class.

3) It’s not my problem…

The phrase “It’s not my problem” is another mark of a lack of class. This phrase displays an unwillingness to take responsibility or to empathize with others.

Interestingly, a study conducted by the University of Michigan showed that those who regularly use dismissive statements like “It’s not my problem” are more likely to exhibit lower levels of empathy and emotional intelligence.

Classy individuals understand that while they may not be directly responsible for every issue, showing empathy and offering assistance when possible is a sign of respect and good character. This phrase indicates not only a lack of class but a lack of compassion and understanding as well.

4) You wouldn’t understand…

The phrase “You wouldn’t understand” is a classic example of a statement that lacks class. At its core, it’s a presumptuous phrase that unjustly assumes the ignorance or incapacity of the listener.

By using this phrase, individuals are not only shutting down potential conversation, but also implying superiority – a clear sign of disrespect.

Classy individuals, on the other hand, assume competence in others and strive to explain their thoughts clearly and respectfully. They know that understanding is fostered through open dialogue and respect for the perspectives of others.

5) I don’t care…

“I don’t care” is a phrase that is frequently used by those lacking class. It’s a blunt statement that signals indifference and a lack of empathy.

When someone uses this phrase, they’re essentially shutting down the conversation and disregarding the feelings or ideas of others. It’s a clear indicator of disrespect and dismissiveness.

Classy individuals, on the other hand, show interest and engage in discussions even when they disagree. They understand that saying “I don’t care” is not a constructive or respectful response in any conversation.

6) I told you so…

“I told you so” is a phrase that can leave a sting. It’s often used to gloat about being right while the other person was wrong, and it does little more than rub salt into an already painful wound.

This phrase is not just about being right; it’s about making someone else feel wrong. It’s a phrase that lacks empathy and compassion, and it can deeply hurt relationships.

Those with class understand that everyone makes mistakes and that gloating about being right is not the path towards building strong relationships. Instead, they offer support and understanding in times of error, because they know that this is what truly matters.

7) It’s all about me…

Once, during a family gathering, I noticed a relative who kept steering every conversation back to their own experiences and achievements. The phrase “It’s all about me” didn’t explicitly come up, but it was implied in their behavior.

This phrase, spoken or unspoken, reveals a lack of class. It shows a self-centered perspective that fails to acknowledge the experiences or feelings of others. It can make those around feel unheard and undervalued.

Classy individuals understand the importance of listening and showing genuine interest in others. They recognize that a conversation is an exchange, not a one-sided monologue.

8) I’m always right…

The phrase “I’m always right” might seem like a sign of confidence. However, it’s actually an indicator of a lack of class.

Insisting on being always right can shut down dialogue, hinder learning, and create a barrier in relationships. It reveals an unwillingness to consider other perspectives and a refusal to acknowledge the possibility of being wrong.

Classy individuals, on the other hand, are open to learning and growing. They understand that being wrong is an opportunity for growth, not a sign of weakness. They value the insights and perspectives of others and are not afraid to admit when they are wrong.

9) That’s so stupid…

Labeling ideas or opinions as “stupid” is another sign of lacking class. This phrase is dismissive and disrespectful, often shutting down the opportunity for constructive dialogue.

This phrase indicates a lack of patience and understanding. It shows a refusal to engage with differing viewpoints and a lack of respect for the thoughts and feelings of others.

People with class approach disagreements with diplomacy and respect. They understand that differing viewpoints can offer valuable insights and that respectful dialogue is the key to understanding and growth.

10) Who cares…

The phrase “Who cares” is perhaps one of the most damaging phrases someone can use. It dismisses the importance of the topic at hand and the feelings of those involved.

By using this phrase, individuals are expressing indifference and lack of empathy. It’s a clear sign of a lack of class.

Those with class understand that every opinion, every feeling, every perspective matters. They know that respect and understanding are the foundation of meaningful interactions. So, if you want to show class, remember: every voice counts.

Final thoughts: It’s about empathy

The complex world of human interaction is deeply intertwined with our ability to empathize with others.

Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, is a fundamental aspect of classy behavior. And according to psychology, it is often reflected in our choice of words.

Phrases that lack class, like the ones we’ve discussed, often indicate a lack of empathy. They show a disregard for others’ feelings and perspectives.

But empathy can be learned and cultivated. By becoming more aware of our language and the impact it has on others, we can start to foster more empathetic interactions.

Whether it’s reframing a dismissive “whatever” into a thoughtful “I see your point”, or replacing a stinging “I told you so” with a supportive “Let’s figure this out together”, small changes in our language can make a big difference.

So next time you’re in conversation, remember: words matter. Choose them with care and empathy. Reflect on their impact. And most importantly, think about how they reflect on you. Because in the end, class is less about what you say, and more about how you say it.